Adult Improver Pod: Sydney Strauss - Moving to NYC to Chase Her Chess Dreams Artwork

The Chess Experience

Chess improvement as an adult is harder than it should be. Plus, the journey can sometimes feel too stressful and serious. This show aims to fix that by 1) interviewing experts who can offer clarity on the best ways to improve; and 2) giving you a heap of fun with “chess entertainment” shows that discuss chess culture, events, movies, etc. Most episodes feature a guest, but sometimes I'll do a solo show on a topic. This is all brought to you by me, Daniel Lona. I’m a dedicated chess amateur and the owner of Adult Chess Academy. After listening to this podcast, I want you to have a clearer idea of how to improve, and have a more fun, dynamic chess experience. Please follow the show so you don’t miss an episode!

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The Chess Experience

Adult Improver Pod: Sydney Strauss - Moving to NYC to Chase Her Chess Dreams

January 14, 2025 • Daniel Lona • Episode 112

112 Would you move to a new city for chess? Few have that level of commitment to the game. But our guest this week did exactly that. Adult improver Sydney Strauss moved to New York City this past year to pursue her relatively new passion for chess.

After learning the game just two years ago, she fell in love with it and began studying and playing every day. The following year, Sydney knew she wanted to take her pursuit to the next level and be fully immersed in chess through clubs, tournaments, and friends.

New York City, with its venerated Marshall Chess Club and thriving chess scene, provided her with that experience.

In a brief time, Sydney has now reached an inspiring FIDE rating of 1581.

This episode explores her story, why chess has impacted her life so greatly, and what her future ambitions may be within the game.

Plus: will she get a chess tattoo?

Connect with Sydney Strauss:

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Daniel Lona

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